Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Get ready to fall in love with this Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup recipe! This comforting dish brings together tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a creamy, flavorful cream sauce that’s sure to win hearts at the dinner table. Perfect for cozy nights or weeknight dinners, this is a rich and satisfying meal that promises warmth and deliciousness in every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavors: The combination of spices and creamy ingredients creates a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps, you can whip up this delightful soup in under an hour.
• Versatile Dish: Great for lunch or dinner, this soup adapts well to your preferences—swap out veggies or proteins as you like!
• Feeding a Crowd: This recipe makes ten servings, perfect for family gatherings or meal prep.
• Comfort Food: Ideal for chilly evenings, each bowl will warm you from the inside out.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Below is a list of must-have items to prepare this delicious soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Provides ample space for cooking all ingredients evenly while allowing for easy stirring.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for mixing ingredients without scratching your pot‘s surface.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities, contributing to the overall taste of your soup.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– 1- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (Diced into 1 inch pieces; I used 1 1/2 pounds.)
– 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning (Divided)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup diced carrots
– 1/2 cup diced celery
– 1/2 cup diced onions
– 1/4 cup diced sundried tomatoes
– 3 garlic cloves (Minced)
– 1/4 cup flour
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste (Optional; See notes)
– 6-8 cups chicken broth (I recommend starting with 6 cups. See notes.)
– 6 oz pasta (I used Italian small shells.)
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1/2-1 cup grated Parmesan Reggiano cheese
– 2 1/2-3 cups fresh spinach

How to Make Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and season with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned on all sides, about 4–5 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and garlic. Cook until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 3: Add Flour

Sprinkle flour throughout the mixture and stir well to combine. Add flour gradually to avoid excess drying. If using tomato paste, add it here and stir thoroughly.

Step 4: Incorporate Broth

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Use your spoon to deglaze any bits stuck at the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Add Pasta

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Add pasta along with an additional teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cover with a lid and lower heat to let it simmer for about 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and pasta is al dente. Alternatively, cook pasta separately and add it later.

Step 6: Stir in Cream

Open the pot and stir in heavy cream, spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Allow it to simmer for an additional five minutes.

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning

Taste your soup and adjust seasoning with salt or spices as needed before serving.

This Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is sure to become a favorite in your household! Enjoy every heartwarming bite!

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Serving Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is all about enhancing its rich flavors and making the meal complete. Here are some delightful suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked baguette or sourdough is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup, adding a satisfying crunch.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top just before serving to add a touch of color and fresh flavor.

With a Side Salad

• A light, crisp salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup beautifully.

In a Bread Bowl

• Serve the soup in an edible bread bowl for an impressive presentation and extra flavor that pairs well with each spoonful.

With Parmesan Crisps

• Homemade or store-bought parmesan crisps offer a cheesy, crunchy contrast that enhances the soup’s creamy texture.

Accompanied by Wine

• Pair this dish with a glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, to balance the soup’s richness and elevate your meal.

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How to Perfect Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

To achieve the best version of Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup, keep these handy tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs make a significant difference in flavor compared to dried or canned options.

• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning as needed for your taste preference.

• Cook Pasta Separately: If you prefer not to overcook pasta, cook it separately and add it just before serving. This keeps it al dente.

• Add Spinach Last: Stir in fresh spinach at the end so it retains its vibrant color and nutrients without becoming mushy.

• Use Low-Sodium Broth: Opting for low-sodium chicken broth allows you to control the saltiness of your soup better while still maintaining great flavor.

• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer for longer can deepen flavors. Just be cautious not to overcook the chicken!

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup can enhance your meal and provide additional textures. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Bread: Classic garlic bread is always a favorite, providing a buttery crunch that complements the creamy soup perfectly.

2. Caesar Salad: A Caesar salad with crisp romaine, parmesan cheese, croutons, and Caesar dressing adds a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers bring earthy flavors that pair well with the creamy base of the soup.

4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta adds protein and freshness that balances out the meal nicely.

5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with cheese or sausage make an excellent appetizer alongside this comforting soup.

6. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy cheesy polenta provides a warm side dish that enhances the overall coziness of your dinner table experience.

7. Antipasto Platter: An antipasto platter featuring olives, cured meats, and cheeses offers variety and excitement for guests before they dig into their soups.

8. Creamy Risotto: A bowl of creamy risotto can complement the textures of the chicken soup while providing additional comfort food appeal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks can stumble when making Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup. Here are some common mistakes and tips on how to avoid them:

• Skipping seasoning: Failing to season the chicken and vegetables properly can leave your soup bland. Always add salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning throughout the cooking process for depth of flavor.

• Overcooking chicken: Cooking chicken too long can result in a dry texture. Monitor the cooking time closely, aiming for tenderness without overcooking.

• Not using fresh ingredients: Using stale or frozen vegetables can diminish the soup’s taste. Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and provide the best texture.

• Rushing the simmering process: Skipping the simmering step can lead to undercooked pasta. Allowing time for the flavors to meld is crucial for a rich soup.

• Neglecting cream integration: Adding heavy cream too early can cause it to curdle. Stir it in during the final minutes of cooking for that perfect creamy finish.

• Not adjusting consistency: If your soup turns out too thick or too thin, remember you can always add more broth or cream until you reach your desired consistency.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for optimal freshness and flavor.

Freezing Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers and consume within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring after each interval until hot.
• Stovetop: Gently warm on low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup:

What makes Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup special?

This soup combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce and fresh veggies, creating a deeply satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Just remember to reheat gently to maintain its creamy texture.

What kind of pasta works best in this recipe?

Small pasta shapes like shells or ditalini work well. They hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully, enhancing each bite of this delicious soup.

Can I customize Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. You can also adjust the level of creaminess by varying the amount of heavy cream you use.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This soup stores well and is great for meal prep. Make a large batch at once, portion it out, and enjoy it throughout the week!

Final Thoughts

Creamy Marry Me Tuscan Chicken Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience that warms your heart and satisfies your cravings. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s perfect for cozy evenings or quick weeknight dinners. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or proteins; there’s no limit to how you can make it your own! Give it a try—you might just find yourself falling in love!